The words obesity, GMO, food stamps, etc. have dominated the news in recent years. When put up against other countries, America seems to be falling behind, namely Europe, in health and regulations, leaving Americans eating Europeans' dust.
Vox posted a series of maps and charts showcasing statistics about America's agriculture, consumption, and health history among other things.
From the average age of the American farmer to each state's most iconic fast food chain, Vox answers many, if not all, curiosities and questions you may have had about food.
Here are some highlights:
Booze vs. Food Distribution
In parts of the Midwest and New York, Floating Sheep found that there are more bars than grocery stores. Although this may put their priorities in perspective, you can't blame them for wanting to warm up with a nice glass of something or another during the harsh winters.
GMO Labeling
Compared to Australia, all of Europe, and most of Asia, the United States is losing in the GMO labeling race. The aforementioned foreign powers have laws requiring labels on all genetically engineered foods while there are no such laws in America.
Food Pyramid: Out With the Old, in With the New
The US Department of Agriculture revamped the food pyramid by eliminating fats and oils from the suggested diet and turning the chart into a plate. The pie chart, if you will, is cut into quarters with vegetables and grains taking up most of the plate.
Americans Are Skipping the Good Stuff
According to the USDA, Americans are neglecting fruits, vegetables, and dairy too often, while their intake of meats and grains supersede the suggested amount.
Texas Claims to Be Barbecue Royalty
Among the southern states that claim to have the best barbeque, this Texas Monthly map attempts to prove them wrong. While blatantly biased, the map does prove that there is more variety in Texas' barbeque and that other states only have one thing going for them.
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